Rehabilitation Center

Located in Portland, Maine

Rehabilitation is A mindset; not just a skillset

Rehabilitation Center student using accessible technology

Focus on employment and independent living skills“ The program was a truly life-changing experience. We learned the latest technologies designed to help us compete in today’s working world. And we learned from each other. I made friends I’ll have for life.”

Tailored to your vision needs and goals

40-plus hours of comprehensive instruction each week in a 2-20 week program.

Historic dormitory offers cozy, home-like, group living, and community for eligible participants from across the country.

After-hours recreational activities organized several times a week with opportunities to explore Portland, the cultural and entertainment mecca of Maine’s rocky Southern Coast.

Photos: Above, a student at the Center learns JAWS; Below, a student has a cooking lesson in the training apartment.

The Iris Network Rehabilitation Center offers an individualized, intensive vocational development program for the 21st century, driven by technology. Expect comprehensive instruction each week provided by highly-trained, experienced, and certified staff inclusive of scheduled activities and recreation. The program is a collaborative effort between The Iris Network staff, the consumer and her or his VR counselor. Program components include the following:

The Iris Network campus also boasts a low vision clinic staffed by Certified Low Vision Therapists, an ophthalmologist, optometrists and an Occupational Therapist.

Designed to deliver cutting edge vision rehabilitation, the Center opened in 2015. It has everything from a model apartment to learn independent living skills to a technology center where participants will learn how to integrate technology into every facet of their lives.

The campus and dormitory are in Portland, Maine. Situated on Maine’s rocky southern coast, Portland is the business and cultural capital of Maine. The dormitory is a historic home that provides a cozy, home-like, group living community. After-hour recreational activities are organized several times a week.

For more information call 1-800-715-0097 and ask for and ask for Joyce Earle, Admissions Coordinator.

The Iris Network Rehabilitation Center is tailored to the vision needs and goals of the individual. A new, innovative and exciting joint project of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), the State of Maine's Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI), and The Iris Network, our program was developed with full involvement from the community, consumer groups, and vision rehabilitation professionals. Vocational in focus, the program is designed to deliver cutting-edge vision rehabilitation to working age adults, including high school and college students in transition. Our focus is on client empowerment, and our goal is full re-integration into the community.

Dormitory at 275 State Street, Portland

Our clients reside in a stately, historic and comfortable house located less than a mile from The Iris Network’s main campus. Many of the rooms have fireplaces, and little alcoves invite you to relax in a comfy chair. Our residence support staff makes every effort to make consumers feel welcome in their new home and community. The residence is within easy walking distance, but transportation is provided as needed.

The Iris Network Rehabilitation Center is located close to the heart of Portland’s vibrant small business district. Within walking distance, students will find the Portland Museum of Art, the Portland Sea Dogs minor league baseball team, the YMCA, a public Park, two colleges, and a wide variety of restaurants and live entertainment venues. There are also a number of pharmacies and grocery stores close by. The Portland Metro bus system takes visitors to the working waterfront, the Maine Mall, or even outlet shopping in Freeport, home of the L.L. Bean flagship store. Portland’s two major hospitals, including the largest in the state, are located minutes away, should there be a need.

Rehabilitation Center Access Technology

Go to collegeGet a jobKeep your jobLive your dreams

Apps for Life

iOS ● Mac ● Microsoft ● Android

Access Technology Overcomes Barriers

Customized training in accessible technology expands opportunities for people seeking employment, education, or a richer quality of life.

Classes designed for people who are blind or have low vision.

Day workshops or intensive week-long instruction, one-on-one or in small classes.